Kharif crop sowing crosses 979 lakh hectare mark; catch key takeaways from latest official data

Kharif crop sowing crossed the 979 lakh hectare mark, with paddy sowing recorded in 331.78 lakh hectares, data from the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare showed on Monday. At the same time, pulses sowing was recorded at 117.43 lakh hectares and coarse cereals at 173.13 lakh hectares, according to an official statement. 

In the corresponding period last year, paddy sowing was recorded at 318.16 lakh hectares, pulses sowing at 117.43 lakh hectares, and coarse cereals sowing at 110.08 lakh hectares, the statement added. 

The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare also shared details of the area coverage under kharif crops, as of August 12, 2024, as follows: 

What is the kharif season? Why is it important for the Indian economy?

The kharif season refers to the monsoon or summer cropping season in the country, typically running from June to September.

It is the time when the southwest monsoon brings substantial rainfall to most parts of the country.

During this period, farmers plant crops that thrive in wet conditions.

Some of the main key kharif crops are rice, maize, cotton, sugarcane, and soybeans.